Left to Right Balance

Even up your left and right

"A unilateral workout is a must in any descent regime. It's human nature to favour one side - especially when lifting things - but that favouritism can sneak into the gym. Not only can this increase your risk of injury, but it could also leave you with one huge, Hellboy-esque arm. There's a simple solution, but one you need to stick to. Perform this workout three times a week, leaving at least one day between session, doing three sets of 8-10reps on all of them - both sides." (Thompson, 2008)

Single-leg Squat

Thompson (2008) suggests: "Stand facing sideways in a doorway and grab the frame" (Make sure no one is planning to use the doorway). "Lift one leg off the floor and squat down, using the frame for balance. Try to keep your free leg straight and press the heel of the other leg into the ground. Ensure you keep the knee of the pressing leg forward - it's easy to lean too far back. Swap legs after 8-10reps."

Illustration by Katy Leigh.

Single-arm Shoulder Press

Thompson (2008) suggests: "Stand with feet shoulder-width apart holding a dumbbell level with your shoulder. Press the dumbbell overhead, pushing your hips out to the right and sliding your left arm down your left leg. Lower the dumbbell, return your hips to the centre." Repeat on the other side after 8-10 reps.

Illustration by Katy Leigh.

Foam-roller Crunch

Thompson (2008) describes: "From the position shown, lie on a foam roller and crunch up, bringing your left shoulder towards your right hip, lower then repeat. keep your abs tight throughout the movement, trying not to let your bodyweight shift to one side, maintaining your balance." Swap sides after 8-10 reps.

Illustration by Katy Leigh.

Single-arm Tricep Pulldown

Thompson (2008) describes: "Take hold of the handle with your palm facing up, your upper arm and elbow pressed against your side. Straighten your elbow without lifting your shoulder, shifting your weight to the side or moving your upper arm. Slowly return to the start and repeat." Switch sides after 8-10 reps.

Illustration by Katy Leigh.

References

Thompson, Kristoph (2008). Personal Training Tips. [printed edition] ShortList, unknown date, p.36a.